Quiz on Descant Recorder

What is the technique called when a player uses their tongue to enunciate notes on the descant recorder?

• Slurring

• Pinching

• Tonguing

• Blowing

Answer explanation

The technique of using the tongue to articulate notes on the descant recorder is called 'tonguing'. This method helps create clear and distinct notes, differentiating it from other techniques like slurring or blowing.

If a student wants to play a higher note like E on the descant recorder, what technique should they use?

• Covering all holes completely

• Pinching the thumb hole

• Blowing harder

• Using a different mouthpiece

Answer explanation

To play a higher note like E on the descant recorder, the student should pinch the thumb hole. This technique helps to raise the pitch by altering the airflow and pressure, allowing for higher notes to be produced effectively.

What is the relationship between the size of the descant recorder and its pitch?

• Smaller recorders play lower pitches.

• The size has no effect on pitch.

• Smaller recorders play higher pitches.

• Larger recorders are easier to play.

Answer explanation

The size of the descant recorder affects its pitch; smaller recorders produce higher pitches due to their shorter air columns. Therefore, the correct answer is that smaller recorders play higher pitches.

Which of the following statements is true about the fingering technique on the descant recorder?

• The right hand is always at the top.

• All holes must be tightly covered.

• Only the thumb hole needs to be covered.

• Fingering does not affect sound quality.

Answer explanation

The correct statement is that all holes must be tightly covered to produce a clear sound on the descant recorder. Proper fingering ensures that the air flows correctly, affecting the quality of the sound.

If a student is practicing the descant recorder and wants to improve their legato playing, what should they focus on?

• Playing with short breaths

• Moving fingers while maintaining constant airflow

• Blowing harder for more sound

• Using different mouthpieces

Answer explanation

To improve legato playing on the descant recorder, the student should focus on moving their fingers while maintaining constant airflow. This technique ensures smooth transitions between notes without breaks in sound.

When creating a new piece of music for the descant recorder, what should a composer consider?

• The size of the recorder only

• The range and techniques suitable for the instrument

• The color of the recorder

• The brand of the recorder

Answer explanation

A composer should consider the range and techniques suitable for the descant recorder, as this ensures the music is playable and effectively utilizes the instrument's capabilities, rather than focusing on size, color, or brand.

Which of the following best describes the pitch range of the descant recorder?

• It plays lower notes than larger recorders.

• It plays higher notes compared to larger recorders.

• It has no specific pitch range.

• It plays only one octave.

Answer explanation

The descant recorder is designed to play higher notes than larger recorders, such as the alto or tenor recorders, which produce lower pitches. This makes the correct choice "It plays higher notes compared to larger recorders."

What is the primary reason the descant recorder is commonly used in schools?

• It is the most expensive recorder.

• It has a complex fingering system.

• It is smaller and easier for beginners to handle.

• It is the loudest type of recorder.

Answer explanation

The descant recorder is commonly used in schools because it is smaller and easier for beginners to handle, making it ideal for young students learning to play an instrument.

What is the primary purpose of the embouchure technique when playing the descant recorder?

• To create a loud sound

• To ensure no air is lost

• To play faster

• To change the pitch

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the embouchure technique is to ensure no air is lost while playing the descant recorder. A proper embouchure allows for better control of airflow, which is essential for producing a clear and consistent sound.

When evaluating the sound quality of a descant recorder, which factor is most important?

• The size of the recorder

• The player's embouchure technique

• The color of the recorder

• The brand of the recorder

Answer explanation

The player's embouchure technique is crucial for sound quality in a descant recorder, as it directly affects tone production and control. Other factors like size, color, and brand are less significant in comparison.